This note GEN 12, originally published in February 1997, was reviewed by Gareth Cole in May 2002. The information herein is considered contemporary and relevant.
‘Passive solar design’ is a design technique that can, and does, increase human comfort and reduce the demands on existing forms of energy production. This Note is intended to provide a general overview to techniques for maximising thermal performance in residential building without the need for mechanical systems. It may be useful in explaining the benefits and operation of solar passive design to clients.